Q: My landlord created a fake rental agreement and now a year later is kicking us out in 30 days.
A:
I'm sorry to hear about your difficult situation with your landlord. It sounds like your landlord may be engaging in unlawful practices. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Review your lease agreement and any other documents related to your tenancy. Even if the agreement is "fake," it may still provide evidence of the terms you and your landlord agreed upon.
2. Document all communications with your landlord, including emails, text messages, and verbal conversations. This information may be useful if you need to take legal action.
3. Contact a local tenant rights organization or a housing counselor for advice and assistance. In California, you can reach out to the California Department of Consumer Affairs' Landlord-Tenant Program or a local fair housing agency.
4. Consider seeking legal advice from a landlord-tenant attorney. They can review your case and advise you on your rights and options. Many attorneys offer free consultations, and some may take your case on a contingency basis.
5. If your landlord proceeds with an eviction, you may have grounds to fight it in court. In California, a landlord must follow specific procedures to legally evict a tenant, and they cannot simply kick you out without proper notice and cause.
Remember, in California, tenants have rights, and landlords must follow proper procedures for evictions. A 30-day notice may not be sufficient, depending on the circumstances of your tenancy. Don't hesitate to seek help and assert your rights as a tenant.
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